The Cascading Bean,   
Maniltoa  lenticellata. 

 This unusual small tree or large shrub is found in lowland rainforests and vine forests from Torres Strait to north of us and in New Guinea. The globular clusters of cream flowers happen in September-October and are happening now. The fruity-scented flowers may be pollinated by marsupials or bats.  The astonishing new growth is pale pink and pendulous (cascading) and is sometimes called handkerchief tree because of this. Watching the large seed pod germinate is astonishing! The new root pushes the seed up and out from the soil and then the first leaves emerge - small pink and pendulous.

Cultivation of this amazing plant is by fresh seed in well drained soil with lots of water in a protected position. Germinates easily and is astonishing to see, almost like an alien. Slow growing but with water, mulch and fertilizer can be encouraged to show its spectacular new growth. 

Cooktown Botanic Gardens has a specimen of the Cascading Bean planted as a memorial to Dr Mick, Hospital Registrar, who had a passion for gardening and would be found working in the gardens often.  There are a couple planted in Mareeba’s Anzac Park.